Solar-powered headset

ABSTRACT

A solar-powered device includes a housing including an electronic element, a number of panels having solar cells capable of providing electrical energy upon illumination, the panels being configured to move from a closed configuration to an open configuration, where the open configuration allows illumination to fall upon the solar cells when positioned in a location from which illumination is available; and a support element contacting the panels and the housing to convey electricity from the panels to the housing, where the electronic elements are powered with electricity from the solar cells.

This application claims priority to, and the benefit of the filing date,of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/987,934, filed Nov. 14,2007, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to solar-powereddevices and, in particular, to solar-powered headsets.

BACKGROUND

Telephones and radio have been used for many years to provide speech,sound, and other audio communication and programming to users at fixedor at mobile locations. Video, text, and other analog and digitalinformation signals may similarly be transmitted to receiving deviceslocated at fixed positions and to mobile receiving devices. In these,and other instances and examples, users often find that headsets areuseful to provide audible signals to a user.

Audio output, and often audio input, is typically provided by a headset.A headset may provide, for example, a speaker designed to be positionednear an ear of a user to allow the user to easily perceive the audiooutput of the device. A headset may include means for mounting theheadset on a user's ear or head to maintain the position of a speakernear to a user's ear. A headset may include a microphone configured toreceive and transform a user's speech (or other audio input) into a formsuitable for use in transmission of a signal to a different location.

Thus, headsets may include audio output (e.g., speakers, as inheadphones) and may include audio input (e.g., as in a microphone ortelephone mouthpiece). Headsets thus may include apparatus or means forconverting an electronic signal into an audio signal able to be heard bya human listener, a power source, and a speaker. In addition, a headsetmay include apparatus or means for receiving an electromagnetic signalwhich carries audio or other signal information, and may include amicrophone or other apparatus or means for converting an audio signal(e.g., speech) into an electromagnetic signal which may be transmittedto other devices or to other components of a device such as a cellphone. A headset may be part of, or provide all functions, of, acell-phone, radio, audio player (e.g., for playing recorded music), orother device. Some cell-phone, radio, audio players, etc. provide somecomponents and functions in a unit separate from, but functionallyconnected to, a headset.

A headset may include one or more of such electronic components,including, for example, power source, speakers, microphones, memory,motor components (e.g., hard drive or tape player), receiver,transmitter, antennae, cables, housing, controls, and other components.Headsets typically include a portion that is positioned near to, or evenwithin a portion of, a user's ear. However, the size and weight of aheadset including such components may be uncomfortable, unwieldy, orotherwise inconvenient to a user. Power components may be heavy, requirefrequent recharging or replacement, or be otherwise inconvenient ordifficult to use and maintain.

Thus, there is need in the art for improved headsets providing improvedease of use, control, maintenance, convenience, and comfort.

SUMMARY

Devices, systems and methods disclosed herein provide improved headsetsfor use with devices including cell-phones, audio players, and otherdevices providing an audio signal to a user. The devices, systems andmethods having features of the invention are typically designed for usemounted on a user's ear or ears, or include a portion or module designedfor use mounted on a user's ear or ears, placing a microphone in properposition to provide sound output that is readily audible to a user.Audible sound output may be presented in mono or stereo format, and maybe filtered or otherwise modified to provide a desired audible signal(e.g., speech, music, or other audio signal). The devices, systems andmethods are simply and efficiently controlled by movements and contactwith the housing of the device itself, eliminating the need to heavy anddifficult to use knobs or other additional control components. Power tothe devices and systems is provided by at least one solar panel, whichmay be configured to power and/or work in conjunction with a battery orbatteries, to provide the electrical power used by the devices andsystems. Audio signals may be provided to an ear-mounted unit, portion,or module by electromagnetic signals, which may be transmitted withoutdirect physical connection (e.g., by infrared, radiofrequency,microwave, or other electromagnetic signals) or via wires or cables,which may include single wires, twisted pairs, co-axial, or other wiresor cables. In preferred embodiments, audio signals are transmitted to anear-mounted unit via electromagnetic radiation compatible with theBluetooth standard including, but not limited to, IEEE Standard802.15.1-2002 and IEEE Standard 802.15.1-2005.

Headsets having features of the invention include panels or otherelements that provide electric power by transforming light intoelectricity. For example, a headset having features of the invention mayinclude a solar panel or a plurality of solar panels that are configuredto provide electrical power when in the presence of illumination. Anelement that provides electricity upon illumination is termed herein apanel and multiple such elements are termed panels. Illuminationeffective to power such panels include natural light (e.g., sunlight),artificial light of any kind (e.g., light from incandescent,fluorescent, diode, flammable, or other artificial light source), and acombination of natural and artificial light. In preferred embodimentsand uses, illumination includes natural light.

In some embodiments, a device having features of the invention may haveone panel. In some embodiments, a device having features of theinvention may have two panels. In further embodiments, a device havingfeatures of the invention may have three panels. In still furtherembodiments, a device having features of the invention may have four ormore panels. In some embodiments having a plurality of panels, allpanels may be substantially identical in size, shape, construction,functional properties, or other aspect. In some embodiments having aplurality of panels, one or more panels may differ in size, shape,construction, functional properties, or other aspect from other panelsof the plurality of panels.

A panel or a plurality of panels may be movable with respect to aportion of a headset having features of the invention. Such movement mayallow opening a panel or plurality of panels from a closed configuration(which may include, e.g., a configuration suitable for storage orshipment, and/or for placement into a low-power or an inactive or “off”state) to an open configuration (which may include, e.g. a configurationsuitable for use and/or for placement into a higher-power or operationalor active state). For example, in embodiments having multiple panels,one or more panels may rotate, fold, unfold, collapse, extend, slide,move, or otherwise be configured so as to be movable. For example, in anembodiment having two panels, one or both panels may rotate so as to bemovable from a closed configuration with one panel substantiallycovering a surface of the other panel from direct exposure to light, toan open configuration in which both panels have surfaces positioned fordirect exposure to light. Similarly, in further embodiments of deviceshaving features of the invention, a device may have three panels, atleast two panels being rotatable from a closed position to an openposition, effective that in a closed configuration two of the panels arein a position from which direct exposure to light is blocked by thethird panel; and in an open configuration, a substantial portion of asurface of each of the three panels is positions so as to be capable ofbeing directly exposed to illumination by light.

A device having features of the invention may include a housingconfigured to hold other components, including, for example, electricalcomponents, including an electrical energy storage medium (such as,e.g., a battery or batteries, or other component capable of storingelectrical charge and of discharging electrical charge at appropriatetimes); mechanical components, including control elements, which mayinclude electrical, magnetic, or other elements in addition to purelymechanical components; optical components; aesthetic or stylingelements; and may include an element or feature upon which a panel, orpanels, may be mounted. A housing is preferably strong and durableenough for repeated use over a long period of time, for normal oraccidental exposure to the elements, including light, heat, and water,while being light in weight effective that a user may comfortably usethe device. In some embodiments, devices and systems having features ofthe invention are configured for at least a portion to be mounted orworn on a user's ear. In embodiments, devices and systems havingfeatures of the invention are configured for providing an audible signalother than, or in addition to, providing a sound signal to a user's ear(e.g., via bone conduction).

A device having features of the invention may include a hub portion uponwhich a panel, or panels, may be mounted. A hub portion may be connectedto, be part of, or be separate or separable, from a housing. A hubportion may be or include an element about which a panel may rotate orwith respect to which a panel may move. In some embodiments, a panel mayrotate around a pivot point or pivot element, such as a hub. In someembodiments, a panel may move in other than a rotational motion (e.g., apanel may unfold, or slide, or telescope, or move in any way suitable toprovide greater exposure to illumination for a panel surface in anunfolded, or deployed, configuration as compared to a folded, orcollapsed, configuration). A hub portion may be part of a housing; or ahub portion may be attached to a housing, or may otherwise be configuredto link to or connect with a housing. In preferred embodiments, one ormore panels are rotatably mounted to a hub portion.

A hub portion may include a connecting element configured to provideelectrical connection between a panel and between electrical componentsof a device having features of the invention. In embodiments, some orall of such electrical components may be housed within a hub portion.Electrical components which may be housed within a hub portion mayoptionally include, but are not limited to: audio circuitry and relatedcomponents; one or more speaker, buzzer, bell, or other sources ofsound, and related components; a microphone or microphones, and relatedcomponents; audio filtering circuitry and related components; powercircuitry and related components; a battery or batteries and relatedcomponents; radio receiving circuitry and related components (including,for example, circuitry for receiving and/or transmitting signals used indevices utilizing the Bluetooth protocol), control circuitry and relatedcomponents; position sensing circuitry and related components;orientation sensing circuitry and related components; and cell-phonereceiving, transmitting, and operating circuitry and related components.A microphone may be any suitable microphone effective to receive soundinput (e.g., speech by a user, or ambient sound desired by a user to betransmitted). In embodiments, a microphone may include a directionalelement configured to receive sound energy from a particular directionor region of space (e.g., from a user's mouth). In embodiments, amicrophone may be a throat microphone.

A hub portion may include a mechanical element configured for mountingor attaching a panel or a component including or housing a panel. Inembodiments, such a mechanical element may be configured to allow one ormore of movement of a panel with respect to the hub, movement of a panelwith respect to a housing, and movement of a panel with respect toanother panel. For example, a mechanical element may be configured tomovably connect a panel with a hub portion, and to allow rotation of thepanel from a first position substantially at a first angle with respectto an axis of a housing, to a second position substantially at a secondangle with respect to an axis of a housing. For example, a mechanicalelement may be configured to movably connect a panel with a hub portion,and to allow rotation of the panel from a first position substantiallyaligned with an axis of a housing, and over or covering the housing, toa position approximately 180° from the first position to a secondposition that is substantially aligned with an axis of the housing butnot substantially over or covering the housing. In further embodiments,for example, a mechanical element may be configured to movably connect aplurality of panels with a hub portion, and to allow rotation of thepanels with respect to each other and with respect to the housing. Forexample, one or more of the panels may have a first position over orcovering another panel and/or the housing, and rotation of one or moreof these panels may place one or more of these panels into a secondposition different from the first position, where one or more panels donot substantially cover another panel and/or the housing.

A hub portion may include a speaker, and may be configured for mountingnear or onto an ear of a user. A clip, or a plurality of clips, may beprovided to aid in mounting a device having features of the inventionnear or onto an ear. In embodiments, a clip may be configured to connectto a hub portion, and to aid in mounting a hub portion of a devicehaving features of the invention near or onto an ear of a user. A clipmay be termed an “earclip.” A clip may be made with material havingdesirable properties, such as, e.g., lightness of weight, flexibility,durability, springiness, malleability, positional (form) memory, orother properties. In embodiments, a clip may include memory metal.

A speaker may be connected with, and may be partially or completelyenclosed within, a housing. A speaker housing may be configured toimprove the audio properties and performance of a speaker, particularlyas perceived by a user listening to the audible output of a speaker. Aspeaker housing, or a portion thereof, may be configured to direct ortransmit sound in a desired direction, or to a desired location. Inembodiments, a speaker housing, or a portion thereof, may also serve asa light pipe, effective to direct or transmit light. Such a light pipefunctionality may be suitable to provide visual feedback to a userand/or to an observer.

In some embodiments, two or more speakers or speaker elements may beprovided. For example, two or more speakers may be used to providestereo sound output; two or more speakers may be used to provide greaterfidelity of sound reproduction over a wider range of sound frequencies(e.g. where one speaker is optimized to provide good sound fidelity forhigher frequencies, and another speaker is optimized to provide goodsound fidelity for lower frequencies; it will be understood that three,or more speakers could also be used for multiple ranges of soundfrequencies). In embodiments, more than two speakers may be provided, toinclude stereo, or other form of sound output, and/or to provide greaterfrequency range, or greater fidelity over more than one range of soundfrequency.

The operation of a device having features of the invention may becontrolled by movement or contact with a housing, hub, panel, or otherelement. For example, pressing on a portion of a device having featuresof the invention may cause a particular operation to be performed. Inembodiments where devices having features of the invention comprise acell-phone, pressing on a portion of the device (e.g., pressing on apanel) may allow a user to answer an incoming telephone call. In afurther example where devices having features of the invention comprisea cell-phone, pressing and holding (i.e., maintaining pressure for atleast a predetermined amount of time) on a portion of the device (e.g.,pressing and maintaining pressure on a panel) may allow a user toinitiate an out-going telephone call, e.g., pressing and holding on apanel may initiate an outgoing telephone call to a selected telephonenumber. In a further example where devices having features of theinvention comprise a cell-phone, rotating a panel in a particulardirection with respect to an axis of the panel may allow a user toadjust the volume of the audio output of a device having features of theinvention. For example, in embodiments where manipulation or rotation ofa panel or of a housing allows volume adjustment, when a device havingfeatures of the invention is mounted on a user's ear, manipulation orrotation of a panel along an axis so that a top portion of the panelmoves closer to the top portion of a user's ear may increase volume, androtation of a panel along an axis so that a top portion of the panelmoves farther from the top portion of a user's ear may decrease volume,providing a simple and intuitive means for controlling the devicewithout need for external knobs, buttons, or other specialized controlelements. It will be understood that a housing may also be configured asa control element in a similar manner as described for a panel that maybe configured as a control element. It will be further understood that,in alternative embodiments, a device having features of the inventionmay include specialized control elements such as knobs, buttons, slides,switches, or other elements, in addition to, or in place of, the controlmechanisms and control methods which do not require specialized controlelements as disclosed herein.

Devices and systems having features of the invention may be configuredso as to be placed or worn on or near a right ear of a user, or a leftear of a user. In some embodiments, devices and systems having featuresof the invention may be designed and configured to be adaptable for useon either ear. Thus, devices and systems having features of theinvention may be designed and configured to be able to be readilychanged from a configuration for use on the right ear to a configurationfor use on the left ear of a user and back again for use on the rightear of a user. For example, devices and systems having features of theinvention may include a tilt switch so that the control features of thedevices and systems may be used in either configuration, and may becontrolled by either the left hand or the right hand of a user. Thus, atilt switch may be used in order to provide devices and systems thatautomatically adapt the controls as disclosed herein so that in whateverconfiguration, whether mounted on or near a right ear or a left ear,rotating, twisting, tapping, or other control movements or manipulationsare correctly transformed into the proper control of the operation ofthe devices and systems.

A panel may include a surface, element, or component capable ofproducing electricity upon exposure to light. Such surfaces, elements,or components may be termed solar cells, photoelectric cells,photovoltaic cells, solar panels, or other term. In the following, suchsurfaces, elements and components may be referred to as “solar cells.”All such surfaces, elements, and components share the common feature ofhaving the ability to provide electricity when exposed toelectromagnetic radiation. In some embodiments, the electromagneticradiation is sunlight, or includes sunlight. The ability to provideelectricity may vary depending on the intensity of the impingingelectromagnetic radiation, and/or the frequency or the impingingelectromagnetic radiation, and/or the angle of incidence of theimpinging electromagnetic radiation, and/or the polarization of theimpinging electromagnetic radiation, and/or on any other variablerelated to the impinging electromagnetic radiation. In some embodiments,a solar cell may be configured to produce electricity upon exposure tonatural light, e.g., sunlight. In some embodiments, a solar cell mayinclude or may be configured to work with a lens; a mirror or otherreflective element; a collector configured for providing enhancedillumination on a surface of the solar cell; a transparent ortranslucent cover or protective element; and any other auxiliary elementor elements suitable for enhancing the power output, or protecting thesolar cell from damage or wear, or for enhancing the efficiency,reliability and/or longevity of a solar cell.

Devices and systems embodying the designs and features disclosed hereinprovide balance to the unit when the solar cell is deployed, effectiveto aid the manipulation of the interface and to bring the microphonecloser to the user's mouth, thus allowing the signal-to-noise ratio tobe as high as possible allowing the noise cancelling circuit to workoptimally. A microphone may include, or be configured to operate inconjunction with, a tube or other element effective to collect, orprovide a pathway for, sound energy to direct sound from a desiredsource or location towards the microphone. A microphone may include, orbe configured to operate in conjunction a baffle, or other element,configured to modify the sound input to provide sound input to themicrophone better suited for the desired frequency or other soundfeatures (e.g., a baffle or cover may be configured to reduce ambientnoise while allowing the microphone to capture speech or music sounds).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Embodiments of the present invention described herein are illustrated byway of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of theaccompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A is a top plan view of a solar-powered headset having features ofthe invention in a closed configuration;

FIG. 1B is a top perspective view of the solar-powered headset of FIG.1A, showing portions to the top and side of the solar-powered headset ina closed configuration;

FIG. 1C is a top perspective view the solar-powered headset of FIG. 1A,illustrated from an opposite side as compared to FIG. 1B, showingportions to the top and side of the solar-powered headset in a closedconfiguration;

FIG. 1D is a bottom plan view of the solar-powered headset of FIG. 1A,illustrated in a closed configuration;

FIG. 1E is a bottom perspective view of the solar-powered headset ofFIG. 1A, showing portions of the bottom and side of the solar-poweredheadset in a closed configuration;

FIG. 1F is a bottom perspective view of the solar-powered headset ofFIG. 1A, from an opposite side as compared to FIG. 1E, showing portionsof the bottom and side of the solar-powered headset in a closedconfiguration;

FIG. 2A is a top plan view of a solar-powered headset having features ofthe invention in an open configuration;

FIG. 2B is a top perspective view of the solar-powered headset of FIG.2A, showing portions to the top and side of the solar-powered headset inan open configuration;

FIG. 2C is a top perspective view of the solar-powered headset of FIG.2A, from an opposite side as compared to FIG. 2B, showing portions tothe top and side of the solar-powered headset in an open configuration;

FIG. 2D is a bottom plan view of the solar-powered headset of FIG. 2A inan open configuration;

FIG. 2E is a bottom perspective view of the solar-powered headset ofFIG. 2A, showing portions of the bottom and side of the solar-poweredheadset in an open configuration;

FIG. 2F is a perspective view thereof, from an opposite side as comparedto FIG. 2E, showing portions of the bottom and side of the solar-poweredheadset in an open configuration;

FIG. 3 provides multiple views of a solar-powered headset havingfeatures of the invention in an open configuration;

FIG. 4 provides multiple views of a solar-powered headset havingfeatures of the invention in a closed configuration;

FIGS. 5 & 5B provides two views of a portion of a main housing havingfeatures of the invention;

FIG. 6A illustrates a speaker housing having features of the invention,illustrating the design of the bottom, including pressure pads;

FIG. 6B illustrates a speaker housing having features of the invention,illustrating the design of the top, and indicating pivot bosses;

FIG. 7A illustrates rotation of a panel having features of theinvention, suitable for opening or deploying a panel in embodiments ofthe invention;

FIG. 7B illustrates a method of controlling the volume of audio outputof a device having features of the invention, in which tilting(rotation) of a panel is used to control the volume as indicated;

FIG. 7C illustrates a method for controlling the operation of a devicehaving features of the invention, in which pressing on a panel havingfeatures of the invention is used as a control signal effective toanswer an incoming telephone call;

FIG. 7D illustrates a method for controlling the operation of a devicehaving features of the invention, in which pressing and holding pressureon a panel having features of the invention is used as a control signaleffective to connect a telephone call;

FIG. 8A is a top plan view of a solar-powered headset having features ofthe invention in a closed configuration, and showing a axial line A-Aalong which a cross-section may be taken;

FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view along line A-A of FIG. 8A of thesolar-powered headset of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 9A provides a view of a main housing, showing a central boss inposition and illustrating indexing elements effective to aid positioninga panel at an orientation of either 0° or 180°, and showing the panelpositioned at an orientation of 180°;

FIG. 9B provides a view of a main housing, showing a central boss inposition and illustrating indexing elements effective to aid positioninga panel at an orientation of either 0° or 180°, and showing the panelpositioned at an orientation of 0°;

FIG. 10 provides multiple views of a pivot boss and related elementshaving features of the invention;

FIG. 11A is a top plan view of a solar-powered headset having featuresof the invention in a closed configuration, and showing an eccentricline along which a cross-section may be taken;

FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view of the solar-powered headset of FIG.11A, showing a main housing, a speaker housing, a central boss, clip,and other elements in cross section;

FIG. 12A illustrates a speaker housing and ear clip having features ofthe invention illustrated in a top perspective view, and indicating howan ear clip may rotate for positioning, convenience of use, and for thecomfort of the user;

FIG. 12B illustrates a speaker housing and ear clip having features ofthe invention, illustrated in a bottom perspective view;

FIG. 13 provides an exploded view of many components of a solar poweredheadset having features of the invention;

FIG. 14A provides a perspective view of internal components and speakerhousing of a solar powered headset having features of the invention,illustrating use of the orientation f the device to control a functionof the device (e.g., volume);

FIG. 14B provides a perspective view of internal components and speakerhousing of a solar powered headset having features of the invention,illustrating how the housing may change color to indicate or dependingupon interaction requirements;

FIG. 15A is a top plan view of a solar-powered headset having featuresof the invention in an open configuration, and showing an axial line B-Balong which a cross-section may be taken; and

FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view of the solar-powered headset of FIG.15A, showing a main housing, a speaker housing, a central boss, clip,and other elements in cross section.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Improved headsets having features of the invention may include some orall of the features and elements as described herein, including thefollowing exemplary features and elements:

Rotating solar cells: The specific rotational opening of the solar cellsused with a headset.

Physical connection medium: The use of the multi-function central bossto connect the solar cell assemblies.

Dual axis control interface: The use of the speaker housing as a controljoystick that can be tilted and pushed.

Tilt switched controlled interface switch: The use of a tilt switch toswap the interaction of the headset for left and right handed operation.

Visual feedback medium: The use of the speaker housing as a light-pipe.

Solar cell construction methodology: The creation of a monocoquestructure by welding together the connection plates and upper shells.

Earclip construction: The use of memory metal in the construction of anearclip.

Interaction mechanics: The pivoting headset housing allows the headsetto be used as a control interface, the unit is located vertically by thePCB and laterally by a retaining cup on the electronics housing holdingthe pivot bosses of the speaker housing.

Central boss operation: The central boss works on several levels asfollows:

Rotational location: The outer wall of the boss locates to the lowersolar cell assembly allowing the upper cell assembly to rotate smoothlywith a minimum of play. The inclusion of traction grease during assemblyeffectively damps the movement of the upper cell.

Clipped vertical location: This feature clips the solar cell assembliestogether allowing the finished product to withstand physical stressbefore failure. This clipping is derived from the strength andflexibility of the material the central boss is made from, ideally SteelMIM.

Indexing at 180 degree increments: The indexing hemispheres in thecentral boss index to dimples in the lower solar cell connection platelocating both solar cells assemblies at 0 and 180 degree orientations.This allows the unit to take 2 defined form factors encouraging the userto interact with the product in 2 predefined ways.

Tunable feel: The indexing hemispheres are located on spring legs, theselegs can be changed in length within the manufacturing tooling allowingthe feel of the indexing to be changes according to the desire of thedesign department. This will define the feel of the final unit allowinga variable amount of resistance to be dialed in.

Interaction modes: Two switches used on the PCB aligned to the dual axismovement of the speaker housing to provide a logical control interface.Combined with a tilt switch, this provides an intuitive controlinterface when used on either ear, as follows:

Increase volume: Press upper edge of the headset towards the head.

Decrease volume: Press lower edge of the headset towards the head.

Action operation (answer call, make call): Press centrally towards thehead.

Activate/deactivate: Press centrally towards the head and hold.

Construction:

In some embodiments, a honeycomb structure joins two components (e.g.,by the use of Radio Frequency Welding) in a way that provides a spacebetween the surfaces allowing an increase in strength and stiffness ofthe mechanical components of the panel while reducing the weight of thepanel. In some embodiments, the honeycomb structure may be external andvisible to a user. In other embodiments, other patterns or no patternsmay be externally. In some embodiments, a panel may include flatelements having no weight-reducing voids.

Due to the low efficiencies of current solar panels, larger solar areasare required to charge typical batteries as used in most Bluetoothheadsets that can easily be integrated without some form of multiplecell array. The limiting factor is the ergonomics of the headset beingcompromised as a result of the large cell. In one embodiment, the rangeof motion and deployment of a solar panel rotates around an axis locatednear one end of the elongated panel. In further embodiments, otherdeployment means and methods are used, for example, including folding apanel or panels open ‘book fashion’ so that panels stacked like thepages of a book in a closed configuration are bound or hinged along oneedge, and free or releasable along another, opposite edge, so thatpanels may open in the manner in which the pages of a book are opened.For example, the panels may be attached at a point or along an edge witha hinge, or several hinges, or may be flexible and configured to open byswiveling torsionally; may be connected by a flexible material, orflexible filaments or woven element, or by other means. Panels may beelongated, having a longer axis and having a shorter axis. Opening ofpanels “book fashion” may be accomplished with panels opening with theshort axis as a point of rotation (e.g., the short axis being analogousto the spine of a book), or may be accomplished with panels opening withthe long axis as a point of rotation (e.g., the long axis beinganalogous to the spine of a book), so that the orientation of the panelsmay be either landscape or portrait, to further use the analogy of booksand printing.

The honeycomb appearance of the solar panels results from a monocoquestructure created from the radio frequency welding of the connectionplates and upper shells. This creates a strong, lightweight assemblythat will facilitate a long service life and quality feel. The look isderived from the cellular construction of other composite materials(e.g., Aerolam and nomex honeycomb).

As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, a solar-powered headset 100 havingfeatures of the invention may be disposed in a closed configuration orin an open configuration. In a closed configuration, as illustrated inFIGS. 1A-1F, a panel or panels 101 may be substantially aligned with,and optionally covering, the body 102 (e.g., the main housing) of thesolar-powered headset. In an open configuration, as illustrated in FIGS.2A-2F, one or more panels 101 may be moved (e.g., rotated, or unfolded,or slid, or otherwise moved from a first to a second position) from aclosed position in which a panel 101 covers, at least in part, a portionof the body 102, to an open position that is not substantially coveringthe body 102. An open position provides the advantage of increasedsurface area exposed to illumination, which, for example, provides forincreased power output of a solar cell or other photoelectric element orcomponent. For convenience, any element, component, material, or surfacecapable of providing electricity upon illumination is termed a “solarcell” or a “solar panel.” A solar panel may be part of, or may bemounted on, a panel, in which case a panel may include, in addition to asolar cell, mechanical and/or structural elements, and may includewires, connectors, or other electrical elements operable with a solarcell. However, it will be understood that the term “solar panel” mayinclude mechanical and structural elements as well as electricalelements, and may sometimes be used interchangeably with the simple term“panel.”

For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, a solar-powered headsethaving features of the invention may have a panel that can rotate to anopen position aligned with, but not covering the main body of thesolar-powered headset. Such rotation may serve to reveal, and expose toillumination, another panel. Such opening of a solar-powered headsethaving features of the invention can serve to double (if there are twosubstantially equally sized panels), triple (if there are threesubstantially equally sized panels) or otherwise multiply the surfacearea exposed to illumination, while providing a closed configurationwith less exposed surface area that is more convenient for transport,storage, or wear (e.g., on an ear of a user) when power is not required,or when less power is required or when not in use. In some embodiments,a solar-powered headset having features of the invention may be moredurable or better protected from damage when in a closed configurationthan when in an open configuration in addition to the advantage ofproviding increased surface area exposed to illumination in an openconfiguration.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, a solar-powered headset having featuresof the invention may include one or more movable solar panels, mayinclude a fixed solar panel 103 (e.g., mounted on a surface of ahousing), and may further include an ear clip 104, connectors for a)connecting electrical cables or wires for delivering power from thesolar cells to other devices, or b) for the input of power in additionto, or in place of, electrical power provided by a solar cell.

FIGS. 3 and 4 further illustrate multiple illustrations of views of anexemplary solar-powered headset 100 having features of the invention,illustrated in both an open configuration and in a closed configuration.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate two views of a portion of a main housing 105having features of the invention. As illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B, amain housing 105 may include pivot points 106 (e.g., as indicated inthese figures), and a speaker housing (not shown) may rotate on thesepivot points allowing the unit to control switches on a printed circuitboard as a result. The main housing 105 may be termed an electronichousing, or may include an electronic housing as a portion of the mainhousing.

Pivot bosses of a speaker housing may be configured to sit into ‘cups’107 in the electronics housing 105 that are tall enough that when fullyassembled the speaker housing cannot be removed or become dislodged.

FIG. 6A illustrates a speaker housing 108 having features of theinvention, illustrating the design of the bottom, including pressurepads 109. FIG. 6B illustrates a speaker housing having features of theinvention, illustrating the design of the top, and indicating pivotbosses 110. A speaker housing 108 may be made from a transparentmaterial with high strength materials such as high impact grades ofpolycarbonate or other plastic or polymer. In some embodiments, aspeaker housing 108 may be made from a glass, or a coated glass havingenhanced safety or protection from damage or breakage.

In some embodiments, the speaker housing 108 may act as a light-pipe,and pressure pads 109 may actuate PCB (printed circuit board) mountedswitches. The pivot bosses 110 allow the unit to pivot and be pressedfor operation. Pivoting or other motion of the speaker housing 108around an axis defined by the pivot bosses 110 effects movement of thepressure pads 109, effective to place them in contact with, or todisplace them (so as to be out of contact with) switches that may bedisposed on a surface opposite the pressure pads 109 when the device isfully assembled. Thus, movement with respect to the housing 102 mayserve as a control signal to initiate, terminate, modify, or otherwisecontrol the operation of the device.

FIG. 7A illustrates rotation of an exemplary panel 101 having featuresof the invention. Such rotation may serve to place a panel 101 into anopen position for use of the headset 100. Opening of a panel 101 asillustrated in FIG. 7A may also expose another panel 101 (disposed belowthe open panel) to illumination, so that both panels may provideelectric power when illuminated as, e.g., when exposed to sunlight orother light source. In the embodiment illustrated in the FIG. 7A, onepanel 101 is movable with respect to the housing, and another panel 101is fixed to a surface of the housing so that, upon deployment of onepanel, two panels are exposed to illumination. Opening the panel 101 toa position approximately 180° from the original orientation is alsouseful in that balance of the device is readily maintained in such aconfiguration. Proper balance provides an advantage for solar-poweredheadsets having features of the invention which are configured to beworn on the ear of a user, as proper balance makes it easier to maintainthe device in a proper position, reduces the likelihood the device willfall off the user's ear, is more comfortable for the user and is moreaesthetically pleasing.

It will be understood, however, that solar-powered headsets havingfeatures of the invention need not always, or exclusively, have an openposition in which panels are disposed oriented at about 180° from eachother, nor need there be only two panels, as discussed above, nor needonly one panel move (e.g., two or more panels may be movable). Forexample, a solar powered headset having features of the invention mayhave three panels, or four panels, or other numbers of panels. Infurther embodiments and in further configurations, panels may bedisposed oriented at about 135° from each other; at about 120° from eachother; at about 90° from each other, at about 45° from each other, atabout 30° from each other or at other angles or at combinations ofangles.

FIGS. 7B, 7C, and & 7D illustrate examples of control mechanisms where apanel 103 or the housing 102, or both, are used as control elements.Pressing, holding, rotating, rolling, tapping or otherwise moving orcontacting a panel, a housing or other portion or element of thesolar-powered headset 100 may be used as a control signal to turn on,turn off, increase volume, decrease volume, connect a telephone call,end a telephone call, answer a telephone call, select a sound source(e.g., telephone or music player), modulate a sound or other signal orcontrol another feature or function of the device or system.

FIG. 8A illustrates one embodiment of the solar-powered headset 100 in aclosed configuration. FIG. 8B illustrates a cross-sectional view of FIG.8A along line A-A. In a closed configuration, two panels may be disposedin substantial alignment with a housing. A housing may encloseelectronics, mechanical elements, connectors, a battery or batteries, alight source (e.g., a light emitting diode (LED), a speaker 110, amicrophone 111, and other elements. For example, illustrated in darkerhatching is a cross-section of a central boss 112 which serves as amechanical element supporting a panel and allowing its rotational, orother, motion with respect to the housing 102. In addition, a centralboss may provide an electrical connection between a panel and electricalelements or components in or on a housing, and between a panel andcontrol elements or components in or on a housing. Also illustrated isan earclip 104. A speaker 110 is also illustrated, near to the ear clip,illustrating how a device having features of the invention may beconfigured so that the speaker and ear-clip operate together to placethe device in a convenient and comfortable orientation with the speakernear the user's ear canal.

As illustrated in FIGS. 9A and 9B, a main housing 102 may include acentral boss 112 having indexing elements effective to aid positioning apanel at an orientation of either 0° or 180° as illustrated, or otherorientation (not illustrated), and showing the panel positioned at anorientation of 180°. Illustrated in position, the central boss 112indexes the panel 101 into position at 0 and 180 degrees.

Lateral indexing hemispheres are mounted on spring arms that allowenough flex for the hemispheres to bump into and out of matchinghemispherical recesses in a lower connecting plate. Holes for connectingclips from the electronics housing 105 provide a lower latching pointfor the electronics housing. The housing slides into this latch and isthen pushed down with the connecting clips pushing through the holes. Inembodiments having features as illustrated in FIGS. 9A and 9B, onceassembled the unit can only be disassembled using special tools. Thisprovides durability and protects the internal elements from damage ortampering.

FIG. 10 provides multiple views of a pivot boss 112 and related elementshaving features of the invention. The pivot boss 112 provides manyadvantages to the design of headsets as disclosed herein. A pivot bossprovides multiple functions in a single part.

For example, a pivot boss provides indexing for rotation and theretention of the outer panel 103 and a central bearing surfacefacilitating rotation. This is achieved through indexing hemispheres onspring legs on the outer flange and through internal spring clipsattaching to the outer panel.

A pivot boss is preferably made from a high strength material with someinherent flex, such as, for example, metals and some very high strengthplastics. Suitable high strength materials include, without limitation,stainless steel, spring steel, berylium copper, Delrin® and glass filledNylon®, and other high strength materials.

A pivot boss having features of the invention may be manufactured usingprocesses that include, without limitation, pressed metal (i.e., metalformed by the process of pressing), metal injection moldings (MIM) andplastic injection molding. Although details of the design of a centralboss may differ from the examples disclosed herein, e.g., depending onthe manufacturing processes employed, it will be understood that thecore functions and features as described here will remain.

Such core functions and features include indexing hemispheres, springlegs, internal spring clips, outer flange, bearing surface, and otherelements and features as illustrated in FIG. 10. A central boss may bepressed into place in a housing, so that the internal spring clips arecompressed as the parts are assembled, and spring into position uponassembly, such that the parts will not come apart during normal use orwear. The outer flange provides strength and a top plate, and iseffective to position the part (and to prevent mis-positioning) duringassembly. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the spring legs and indexinghemispheres may be integral parts of the pivot boss. It will beunderstood that in some embodiments, such elements may be independent ofa pivot boss. In some embodiments, additional spring leg and indexinghemisphere elements, in addition to the spring legs and indexinghemispheres integral to the pivot boss, may further be provided. Abearing surface is configured to provide a strong and substantiallyrigid surface about which a panel, or an element affixed or attached toa panel, may rotate. Detents associated with a panel may move along asurface of the pivot boss (e.g., along a surface of the outer flange)and may be captured by or settled within an indexing hemisphere,effective to provide a sensible signal to a user when rotating a panel,and/or effective to retain a panel in a position in which a detent iscaptured by or retained within an indexing hemisphere. Alternatively, orin addition, rotation of a panel with respect to a housing may move orcompress a spring leg, providing a sensible signal to a user, and/orproviding mechanical guidance or control as the panel rotates. In someembodiments, upon achievement of a final panel position, a spring legmay bounce back from a compressed position to a relaxed position,retaining or capturing an element associated with a panel effective toretain the panel in a desired position. Such retention of a panel in adesired position is typically not so forceful as to prevent thereplacement of the panel in a previous position or orientation.

FIG. 11A illustrates one embodiment of the solar-powered headset in aclosed configuration. FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 11Aalong line B-B. In this embodiment, two panels may be disposed insubstantial alignment with a housing, one panel disposed above theother. FIG. 11B provides an illustration of a pivot boss 112 in positionwithin a device having features of the invention. Also illustrated is anupper connection plate 113 providing a connection between a solar celland other elements of the upper panel. A similar connection plate 114 isalso illustrated for the solar cell of the lower (covered) panel. Inaddition, a clip 115 connecting the lower panel to the housing isillustrated in FIG. 11B. It will be understood that, alternatively, thelower panel may be attached to the housing by other means, or may beformed as an integral part of the housing.

As discussed above, a housing may enclose electronics, mechanicalelements, connectors, a battery or batteries, a light source (e.g., alight emitting diode (LED), a speaker, a microphone, and other elements.For example, illustrated in darker hatching is a cross-section of acentral or pivot boss 112 which serves as a mechanical elementsupporting a panel and allowing its rotational, or other, motion withrespect to the housing. In addition, a central or pivot boss may providean electrical connection between a panel and electrical elements orcomponents in or on a housing, and between a panel and control elementsor components in or on a housing. Also illustrated is an earclip. Aspeaker 110 is also illustrated, near to the ear clip 104, illustratinghow a device having features of the invention may be configured so thatthe speaker and ear-clip operate together to place the device in aconvenient and comfortable orientation with the speaker near the user'sear canal.

As illustrated in FIGS. 12A and 12B, an ear clip 104 may rotate,providing many optional positions for the greater comfort of the user.An earclip may be malleable or deformable, so that a user may mould anearclip into a desired shape, e.g., into a shape that comfortably fitsaround the user's ear. In some embodiments, an earclip may be made frommemory wire to allow a user to mould an earclip into a desired shape,e.g., into a shape that comfortably fits around the user's ear, and sothat additionally, after a period of time, the memory wire returns toits original position, thereby allowing a custom fit every time the unitis used.

FIG. 13 illustrates an exploded view of a solar powered headset havingfeatures of the invention. Exemplary components and materials of asolar-powered headset according to one embodiment of the invention areillustrated in Table 1 below.

TABLE 1 Functional Information Material Information Upper Solar UpperSolar Cell Assembly Upper Solar Cell Shell: Cell Shell The EVA filmlayers sandwich the solar panel and are laid into A transparent materialoffering high impact resistance, the cavity in the connection plate.optical transparency and high geometric accuracy. Ideal EVA Film Thisassembly of parts is heated in a vacuum until the EVA materials wouldinclude Acryllic, Polycarbonate or becomes liquid. When cooled the Solarpanel is encapsulated toughened glass. within EVA resin and is bondedpermanently to the connection Upper Connection Plate: plate. A polymeroffering high strength and stiffness as well as Upper Solar Thisassembly is then loaded into a jig and is radio frequency low mouldshrinkage. In this instance the material has to Cell welded to the uppershell creating the final structure. be suited to radio frequencywelding. Suitable materials EVA Film By virtue of the manufacturingprocess and the honeycomb include Polycarbonate, ABS, Bayblend andNylon. aesthetic treatment of the connection plate, the final structureis effectively a double skinned monocoque. Upper Similar structures arefound in nature (within the bones of birds) Connection and are mimickedby industry usually in the use of composite Plate materials. Thisstructure will be light but very stiff, strong and durable offeringlongevity and a durable feeling of quality while remaining light enoughto be suspended on the user's ear. Anti-Friction Ring Anti-FrictionWasher: Simply reduces friction between the solar cell assemblies byPTFE (Teflon) has to be used for this part either in virtue of thematerial properties. moulded or stamped from sheet as it's propertiesare uniquely suited to it's role. Alternatives could include Nylon andPOM but with significant trade-offs. Lower Solar Lower Solar CellAssembly Lower Solar Cell Assembly: Cell Shell Base constructionprinciples are as detailed above. Same as Upper Solar Cell Assembly EVAFilm The inclusion of two spring clip holes in the connection plateallow the electronics housing to clip into place. Lower Solar Thecircular hole between these spring clip holes allows the Cell pressurepins in the Upper connection plate to protrude through EVA Film to thePCB making electrical contact. Lower It also allows the central boss toclip on to the upper connection Connection robustly joining the twoassemblies while providing Indexing at Plate 180 degree intervals and ahigh tolerance bearing surface for the lower solar panel assembly to runon. Central Boss Central Boss Central Boss: Defined fully on anothersheet. This component has to be made from a very high strength, hightolerance material due to the loads and requirements placed upon it.Suggestions would included Metal Injection Moulded steels as well asstamped steels or very high strength injection moulded polymers thoughthese are dubious. PCB PCB Assembly PCB Assembly: The PCB assembly has afew unique physical features worthy of Material data for components ofthe PCB assembly are of note: no specific relevance or uniqueness.Connector 1: Gold plated electrical concentric contacts on the PCBprovide connection to the upper solar panel connection pins. LEDs 2:Switch and LED locations are specific to the location of the SwitchesSpeaker housing as they physically interact with this component.Microphone 3: SMT mounted Mic reduces size on the board and allowscompact packaging. Tilt Switch 4: Tilt switch changes software modes forleft and right handed Battery volume adjustment allowing increase anddecrease in volume by tilting the headset up and down respectively foreither. Speaker Speaker Housing Speaker Housing: Speaker The speakerused in this product is unremarkable. Transparency and toughness are ofkey importance with Housing The housing acts as control interface,visual feedback display this component. The pivot points have to bestrong and the housing for the speaker is described in other sheets inenough to survive for the service life of the product as more details.well as being transparent enough to be used as a light- pipe.Polycarbonate or Acrylic are the only serious choice for this component.Electronics Housing Electronics Housing: The electronics housing simplyacts as a chassis connecting all The housing simply has to be strongenough to survive disparate parts of the product. It provides mountpoints for the for the service life of the product while retaining it'sPCB, solar cell assemblies and the speaker housing. appearance. Itincludes a lower latch and two spring clips to attach to the Suggestionsare as per the connection plates. lower solar cell connecitn plate, thisthree-point contact allied to Polycarbonate, Bayblend, ABS and Nylon.the location ribs on the connection plate stably locate the solar panelsproviding longevity and a quality feel. Earclip Assembly Wire Earclip:Memory Wire The wire of the earclip is a memory metal allowing the unitto A one-way memory metal is suited to this application. Earclip bemoulded to the user's ear during use. After time the earclip There are amultitude of materials suited for this will slowly return to it'soriginal form. application with no obvious leader as many materialsSilicone Rubber The sheath simply softens the feel of the wire for theuser's have similar properties. Cover confort. Earclip Sheath: Theproduct needs durablility, flexibility and hygiene to be at the fore ofit's characteristics. To this end Silicone rubber either co-moulded,produced separately and assembled of simply dip coated would besuitable. All other materials would not have the right combination ofqualities for this application. PCB PCB Assembly PCB Assembly: The PCBassembly has a few unique physical features worthy of Material data forcomponents of the PCB assembly are of note: no specific relevance oruniqueness. Connector 1: Gold plated electrical concentric contacts onthe PCB provide connection to the upper solar panel connection pins.LEDs 2: Switch and LED locations are specific to the location of theSwitches Speaker housing as they physically interact with thiscomponent. Microphone 3: SMT mounted Mic reduces size on the board andallows compact packaging. Tilt Switch 4: Tilt switch changes softwaremodes for left and right handed Battery volume adjustment allowingincrease and decrease in volume by tilting the headset up and downrespectively for either.

FIG. 14A provides a perspective view of internal components and speakerhousing 108 of a solar powered headset having features of the invention,illustrating use of the orientation of the device to control a functionof the device (e.g., volume of the sound output, connection (e.g.,telephone connection), operational mode (e.g., telephone mode, radiomode, music player mode, or other mode, tone characteristics of thesound output, and other functions). For example, when the speakerhousing 108 is rocked from side to side the pressure pads 109 operatethe switches changing volume, answering calls or connecting the headset.

For example, in some embodiments moving the switches by approximately0.2 mm creates approximately 1-1.5 mm of lateral movement in thehousing, providing feedback to the user. The simplicity of use providedby using the body of the device as a control element provides advantagesincluding ease of use, simplicity of design and construction, reductionof number of parts, increased reliability, and other advantages. Coupledwith the automatic ability for these controls to adjust to the presentorientation of the device (e.g., as a button, up and down for volumealways are up and down, push to use, push and hold to connect are allthe simplest controls possible for this type of object. The controls mayinclude, for example, switches (including tilt switches and otherswitches or controls configured to sense orientation or position),buttons, sliders, strain gauges, sensors (e.g., thermal, optical, orother sensor), and a central processing unit (CPU) or units. Forexample, a tilt switch may be used to influence the control interface bydefining the switch function allocation by the on-board CPU. Forexample, where a device having features of the invention includes a tiltswitch, buttons and a CPU, when the tilt switch is in the “off” state,button 1 may be volume up and button 2 may be volume down. When the tiltswitch is in the “on” state, button 1 may be volume down and button 2may be volume up. Other controls may also be interpreted differentlydepending on the tilt switch. In some embodiments, some controls areunaffected by the state of the tilt switch.

FIG. 14B provides a perspective view of internal components and speakerhousing 108 of a solar powered headset having features of the invention,illustrating how the housing may change color to indicate or dependingupon interaction requirements. For example, light may diffuse into aspeaker housing from light emitting diodes (LEDs) allowing the housingto change color depending on interaction requirements. The intensity ofthe illumination may also change depending on interaction requirements.The housing may be internally painted with a reflective or light coloredpaint to maximize the illumination effect. Such an illumination effectis useful to the operator, providing information and feedback about theoperation and status of the device. In addition, such an illuminationeffect provides an attractive and interesting aesthetic effect. In someembodiments, the color or intensity of the light may change

FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate a solar-powered headset 100 having featuresof the invention in an open configuration, with FIG. 15B showing across-sectional view taken along line B-B of FIG. 15A. Some of theelements illustrated in the cross-sectional illustration include a mainhousing 102, a speaker housing 108, a central boss 112, clip 115 andother elements in cross section.

As used herein, the term “bluetooth” indicates an accepted protocol fortransmission of information and/or electronic signals. In particular,Bluetooth is a wireless specification which supports data and voiceapplications. For example, a Bluetooth headset is a headset that usesthe Bluetooth wireless specification to link with another unit orcomponent of a composite device; e.g., a Bluetooth headset may providespeaker and microphone functions for a mobile telephone, while otherfunctions may be performed by a (physically) separate unit that theheadset is configured to work with to provide all the functions of themobile telephone (e.g., telephone reception, telephone transmission,signal processing, and other functions). A “Bluetooth device” is adevice that utilizes or the use of which is compatible with Bluetoothprotocols. Bluetooth wireless applications typically operate in theradiofrequency band between about 2.4 GHz to about 2.485 GHz. Bluetoothapplications typically use a spread spectrum, frequency hopping,full-duplex signal. Such a signal may typically be designed for use at ahopping rate of 1600 hops/sec. Signal hopping, and related methods(e.g., detection of interfering signals and avoidance of the frequenciesin use by such signals) provides advantages including efficienttransmission and reduced interference.

One skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can bepracticed by other than the above-described embodiments, which arepresented in this description for purposes of illustration and not oflimitation. The specification and drawings are not intended to limit theexclusionary scope of this patent document. It is noted that variousequivalents for the particular embodiments discussed in this descriptionmay practice the invention as well. That is, while the present inventionhas been described in conjunction with specific embodiments, it isevident that many alternatives, modifications, permutations andvariations will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art inlight of the foregoing description. Accordingly, it is intended that thepresent invention embrace all such alternatives, modifications andvariations as fall within the scope of the appended claims.

1. A solar-powered device comprising: a housing comprising an electronicelement; a plurality of panels having solar cells capable of providingelectrical energy upon illumination, said panels being configured tomove from a closed configuration to an open configuration, wherein saidopen configuration allows illumination to fall upon said solar cellswhen positioned in a location from which illumination is available; anda support element contacting said panels and said housing effective toconvey electricity from said panels to said housing; wherein saidelectronic elements are powered with electricity from said solar cells.2. The solar-powered device of claim 1, wherein said support element isa hub.
 3. The solar-powered device of claim 1, wherein said panels areconfigured to rotate about a pivot point.
 4. The solar-powered device ofclaim 1, 2, or 3, wherein said panels rotate about a hub.
 5. Thesolar-powered device of claim 1, wherein said electronic element isconfigured to be controlled by movement of a panel or of the housing. 6.The solar-powered device of claim 5, wherein said movement is selectedfrom at least one of tilting a panel, tilting a housing, rotating apanel, rotating a housing, tapping a panel, tapping a housing, pressingand holding a panel and pressing and holding a housing.